Child Worker Dies on iPhone 5C Production Line

Shi Zhaokun's Working Hours

China Labor Watch (CLW) has obtained information that confirms the recent sudden deaths of several workers at Pegatron (Shanghai) Ltd Co., a factory primarily making cell phones and tablet PCs for Apple, including iPhone 5C.

These workers, one of whom was a child worker, passed away in a very short period of time. However, Pegatron never carried out in-depth investigations into the causes of death after the incidents occurred.

Concerned about this issue, CLW has demanded that Apple and the factory perform autopsies on each deceased worker and verify the actual reason for the workers’ deaths, including potential hazards in the production process that continue to pose a risk to other workers in the factory.

Shi Zhaokun, a 15-year old worker, died of severe pneumonia on October 9 in Shanghai Shuguang Hospital. When Shi took the pre-employment physical examination on September 4, the results indicated that he was in good health. While Shi worked at Pegatron making Apple products, the factory demanded workers to work for 12 hours each day. In addition, workers could only switch between night and day shifts once every three month. They were even required to work during the Chinese National Day holiday period.

CLW was saddened to learn that recently after hearing about her grandson’s death, Shi Zhaokun’s grandma passed away.

The factory has denied fault in Shi’s death, as well as the other deaths, and has refused to conduct in-depth investigations. However, Shi’s family doesn’t have 12,000 RMB ($1,970) to pay the hospital for the autopsy on their son.

Shi Zhaokun’s family has asked CLW to seek donations to pay for an independent autopsy that can help find out the truth behind the deaths of these workers. CLW asks you and your friends to help support Shi Zhaokun’s family and the workers at Pegatron. Together, we will uncover the truth and obtain justice for this young man and the other deceased workers. Together, we will influence Apple to show greater respect for the workers making its products.